Description of Tool or App

Geogebra is an open source multi-platform application that allows users to explore mathematics in a way that is dynamic and interactive. Geogebra is a geometry based software but it does incorporate computer algebra systems (CAS) features that give it even more functionality. Users can input functions and plot graphs. Also, users can use the many tools to create geometric constructions. Recently added, was a spread sheet feature that allows users to input data, plot the data, and perform computations with the data. The main goal of Geogebra is to help students build their knowledge and understanding of mathematics through problem based explorations.


Benefits of Tool or App
  • Geogebra is free and the fully functional applet can be opened on the web or downloaded to a computer.
  • Geogebra has an extensive user manual as well as many tutorials for learning to use the system. There is also a forum for users to ask questions and connect with other users.
  • Geogebratube is an online source of files and ready made applications and constructions for use in the classroom.
  • Geogebra has a user friendly tool bar and commands are easy to use and understand
  • Geogebra allows students to see the results of manipulation of variables and allows for students to investigate mathematical relationships.
  • Geogebra allows for the visualization of abstract concepts.
  • Students are engaged in the modeling process when creating their own applications.
  • Students are able to create and test hypothesis.
  • Geogebra provides opportunities for cooperative learning and problem solving; and thus increasing student discourse about mathematics.
  • Geogebra encourages teachers to integrate technology into mathematics lessons.
  • Images can be copied as a PNG or HTML file for use on websites or handouts.




Constraints of Tool or App

  • Geogebra is java based and therefore is not available to run on all mobile devices. (However, the developers have just completed a fundraising campaign to help develop android and ipad apps).
  • Some of the premade applications are not as beneficial as others, and must be looked over carefully before applying to lessons.
  • Some of the tools may be a little "buggy" and may require a workaround to arrive at the correct conclusion. (For example, when measuring angles, sometimes the tool measures in the wrong direction and gives the wrong angle size)
  • Some of the more advanced features and commands have a bit of a learning curve in order to become familiar with. The syntax used to create the commands may not be familiar to some students.
  • Geogebra has some limitations with the computer algebra system aspect of the program. It could benefit by having more functionality and a broader range of abilities.



How To Use Tool or App

Visit the Geogebra website at http://www.geogebra.org/cms/.

Click the Download button.

Choose Webstart (to download to your computer) or Applet (to access a fully functional version on the web).

Enter a function into the input bar at the bottom of the screen or choose from the construction tools in the toobar at the top of the screen.
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For spreadsheet applications, choose spreadsheet from the view menu.

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Or choose from one of the other toolbars, such as CAS (Computer Algebra Systems)



Visit the website http://wiki.geogebra.org/en/ to access the user manual, tutorials, forums for more in-depth information about how to use Geogebra.



Original Artifact of Tool or App (created by someone in your house)

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Classroom Uses for Tool or App

Note that student and teacher uses could easily overlap and be combined into one list. For the purpose of this assignment, they have been separated.

Student Uses

Graphing functions
Plotting data for lines of best fit
Geometric constructions
Solving equations via CAS
Model algebraic functions
Manipulate free objects to show change in dependent objects
Create visual aids for exploring mathematics

Teacher Uses

Demonstrate and model mathematics for students
Create images for worksheets or handouts or websites
Create visualizations for use in presentations
Create interactive worksheets for students to experiment with